English Pericles Speaks on Democracy
According to Pericles, how is Athens different from
other Greek city-states?
Our constitution does not copy the laws of neighbouring
states; we are rather a pattern to others than imitators
ourselves. Its administration favors the many instead of
the few; this is why it is called a democracy. If we look to
the laws, they afford equal justice to all in their private
differences... class considerations not being allowed to
interfere with merit; nor again does poverty bar the way,
if a man is able to serve the state, he is not hindered by
the obscurity of his condition.
O Athens has an administration that favors the upper
classes.
O Athens has laws that treat all people fairly,
regardless of social class,
O Athens took the best laws of neighboring states and
made them even better.
O Athens has a constitution, while other neighboring
states are lawless.
Done
Intro